GUNNISON, Colo. The Western Colorado women's volleyball team bounced back in dominant fashion Friday night, sweeping New Mexico Highlands inside Paul Wright Gym to get back in the win column.
JUST THE FACTS
Final Score: Western Colorado def. New Mexico Highlands 3-0 (25-18, 25-15, 25-16)
Records: Western Colorado 8-11 (3-6 RMAC), New Mexico Highlands 3-17 (1-8 RMAC)
Location: Paul Wright Gym
HOW IT HAPPENED
- The Mountaineers carried their momentum into the opening set, taking an early advantage and closing out the frame with a 25-18 victory. Western continued to apply pressure as they looked to build on their strong start and take control of the match.
- Western opened the second set with the same energy, putting together a 6-1 run to establish an early lead. New Mexico Highlands responded with a run of its own to keep the set competitive, but the Mountaineers remained composed and continued to execute on both sides of the net. Western eventually pulled away with a decisive 5-0 run to close out the second set, 25-15, and move within one set of the sweep.
- Breanna Nohava led the Mountaineers' offensive attack with a team-high 11 kills. Sierra Long and Emily Robins each added seven kills, helping Western maintain a balanced offensive effort throughout the match. The Mountaineers spread the ball around effectively, keeping the Cowgirls' defense on its heels and finding opportunities to capitalize on their attacks.
- Anuhea Ka'alele paced Western's offense with 18 assists, while Olivia Moore contributed 15 assists in the victory. Their efforts helped keep the Mountaineers' attack moving and created scoring opportunities for hitters across the lineup. Western's ability to distribute the ball and find multiple offensive options played a key role in maintaining control of the match.
- The third and final set belonged to Western, as the Mountaineers jumped out to a sizable lead and never looked back. With momentum firmly on their side, Western continued to apply pressure and limited New Mexico Highlands' opportunities to mount a comeback. The Mountaineers secured the 25-16 set victory to complete the sweep, defeating the Cowgirls for the second time this season.
- Defensively, Galatia Andrew delivered a standout performance in the back row, recording a team-high 20 digs. Andrew consistently kept the ball alive and helped set up Western's offense throughout the match. Makaelah Paulino also made an impact defensively, finishing with 10 digs as the Mountaineers worked together to limit the Cowgirls' scoring opportunities.
THEY SAID IT
UP NEXT
The Mountaineers will return to action on Saturday, October 17, as they welcome Adams State to Paul Wright Gym to close out the weekend. First serve is set for 1 PM.
